After years of tension and a clear demonstration of Beijing's assertive diplomatic approach toward Canberra, a much-anticipated improvement occurred in the relationship between Australia and China. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in the Chinese capital, providing a notable relief for bilateral ties.

In his opening remarks, Xi told Albanese the relationship had now "embarked on the right path of improvement." He was "heartened" to see that a "healthy and stable China relationship" would serve the common interests of both nations. China's president said the normalization of the diplomatic relationship reflected a "joint effort on both sides" to "work out some problems."

“It is important we keep moving forward the strategic partnership between our two countries,” Xi told his guest. Albanese told that his aim was to have a relationship with Xi that enabled clear communication. "Where differences arise it is important that we have communication," the prime minister said. "From communication comes understanding."

"Trade is flowing more freely to the benefit of both countries ... and the tempo of bilateral visits is increasing," Albanese said. "I believe that we can all benefit from the greater understanding that comes from high-level dialogue and people links."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese became the first Australian leader to make this trip in seven years. Notably, China is a big trading partner for Australia, and it's where many Australian businesses sell their products. Albanese received a warm welcome at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing after years of strained relations, which had escalated into a trade war when former Prime Minister Scott Morrison called for a pandemic origin inquiry.

Xi Jinping is believed to have raised the issue of Australia's objection to China's entry into the expanded Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). While China aspires to join the pact, Australia's trade minister Don Farrell last year had said that the communist nation had 'no prospect'."Albanese told Xi that the expansion of CPTPP requires the unanimous support of all its signatories, which was unlikely as some nations don't want China on board. However, it was not clear whether Australia would shed off its objections regarding China's membership.

In the lead-up to this meeting, China eased trade restrictions on Australia that were implemented during Scott Morrison's time as prime minister. While some restrictions remain, particularly on lobster and wine, Albanese raised the issue with Xi. Australian officials are optimistic that their wine will soon return to the Chinese market.

The matter of Australian activist Yang Hengjun, imprisoned in China for the past five years, was discussed during the meeting. Previously, China released Australian journalist Cheng Lei after detaining her for three years. Albanese did not disclose Xi's response when speaking to the media.

Albanese advocated for increasing high-level interactions between the two countries, including the revival of the annual leaders' dialogue. He extended an invitation to Xi for a visit to Australia.

The issues of the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza were also discussed in the meeting. Albanese said the two leaders spoke about Ukraine and the war in the Middle East, adding that he stressed the need for peace and security “in our region.”

Image source: Nikkie Asia